By: Brenda Transitioning from being the office manager to a compañera has been an interesting experience. I think that deep down inside I was meant to be a compañera. Before I was even considered for the position, a woman named Camila* came to the office. Camila is an elderly woman who I remember had previously…
DetailsWorking at Taller de José I have met wonderful people and have seen a variety of cases. In my previous work life, I worked alongside DCFS and many children. Working there I unintentionally viewed the foster parents as the heroes who save these children. As I have continued my social work education and have…
DetailsBy Hillary Although I am wrapping up my time with Taller de Jose after almost three years, I am still seeing new types of cases regularly. For the first time ever, I found out I was going to be interpreting at an asylum interview. Apart from this being one of the most difficult types of…
DetailsBy Mitchell Roemer Before I started working at Taller de José I knew the Daley Center as that big black building with the weird statue in front of it. Recently Sr. Betty, a compañera at Taller de José, accompanied me on a trip there so that I could experience the building for myself that is…
DetailsBy Maria I recently had a passing conversation with someone in which he asked if Taller de José might be able to help a family member. He made a point to tell me that this family member was a U.S. citizen. I replied that Taller de José served anyone regardless of immigration status, and he…
DetailsBy Paola Johnson It has been over six months since I first started interning at Taller de José and living in Chicago. It has been a challenging but fulfilling experience. During this time I have been immersed in the different neighborhoods and areas of this city through my own eyes and the eyes of my…
DetailsBy: Korina Compañeras@s never truly know why an individual is coming to our doors, and many times it isn’t until sitting down and listening to their story that we find out. Clients come in for a variety of reasons– translations, emotional support, physical accompaniments, referrals, and the list goes on and on– but, most importantly,…
DetailsBy: Sr. Betty Sr. Betty met Mr. Tom on the corner of Albany and Cermack. They were going downtown to a lawyer’s office to get some legal help and advice. On the way to the pink line L station Mr. Tom says, “Sr. Betty we have to go to the pawn shop first.” Mr. Tom…
DetailsBy Joan Prior to volunteering at Taller de José in August, 2010, I had taught Spanish, Italian and Etymology for 38 years at the high school level. I was so blessed during my life to have a career that I enjoyed so much. It was hard to leave but I just knew it was the…
DetailsBy: Becky When I first moved to Chicago several months ago, I never imagined that I would find such a kind, welcoming family as I have here at Taller de Jose. This feeling of belonging is something you feel the moment you walk through the door at our office on W 24th Blvd. This warmth…
Details
